Good Friday

Whenever we pray for the Novena for the deceased, there is a line that says, “Lord, help us to see death for what it really is.” This is an invitation that amidst our pain, sorrow, grief, and fears may we see the reason and beauty with death. Today we celebrate Good Friday. But again, how…

Betrayal and Trust

People have the impression that when you forgive, the once warm relationship that existed previously, should return. That is furthest from the truth. When one forgives, it is not for the other party. It is for ourselves. We take away the anger; we take away the desire for revenge; we focus on healing and moving…

Healing and Prayer

With so many sick people and so many sicknesses, healing is one of the most popular prayer intentions. The Gospel today reminds us that one of the reasons people were going to Jesus in droves was to request healing. Further, the Gospel has as many as 22 different stories of healing. We have a rosary…

Be Prepared

How many times has this happened to us – we get a call or we see on social media that a family, friend, office mate, or neighbor just passed away unexpectedly. Of course, at first, there is always denial, but eventually sadness and grief sink in. Also, two realities come in: First, we are reminded…

Sacred Heart

When I would accompany my late mother to her doctor appointments and when she was hospitalized, I noticed her blood pressure would always be taken. Once I asked the doctor why he always takes her blood pressure. The answer was simple but very profound – “It is the heart that tells us whether there is…

Repent

As a priest, we often visit the sick. There was this patient who was unconscious for three days. Thank God he was brought back to life. As with many near-death experiences, I asked him if he saw a light at the end of a tunnel, or was he in a very beautiful garden? Did he…

Watch

When one crosses the age of fifty, watching has become a part of life. We watch our weight, we watch the food we eat, we watch the people we deal with, we watch our finances, we watch our plans more intently, we even watch our steps. Some the things we watch because at this point…

Christ the King

In this world, everything comes to an end. The most beautiful song has an end; the most beautiful movie has an end; the most meaningful relationships have an end; and all our lives will come to an end. Yes, this world will eventually come to an end. This Sunday we will celebrate the Solemnity of…

Seeing God’s Hand

How many times have I been asked this question, “Why does God allow evil in this world?” That indeed is a very valid question. Just look at the current state of the world. My typical response which I learned from spiritual writers is that, “If you take away God, some other spirit takes over.” Hence,…

Inclusive

One of the most popular word nowadays is Inclusive. It is defined as not excluding any person, party or group. The basis for this in the matters of faith, is that all are children of God, with the only difference being blessed differently because of each mission given by God. Sadly though, discrimination is very…